Feb 12, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) reacts after hitting a three-point basket during the second half against the San Antonio Spurs at Madison Square Garden. Photo Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony has been named by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver to replace injured Eastern Conference All-Star reserve Kevin Love in the NBA All-Star Game, which will be played Sunday at Smoothie King Center in New Orleans.
Love, who was named an All-Star for the fourth time, had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee on Tuesday and is expected to be sidelined about six weeks.
This marks the 10th All-Star selection for Anthony, who is averaging 23.2 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.9 assists in 55 games this season.
Anthony, 32, will be playing in the All-Star Game for the eighth consecutive year. Anthony has 23,775 career points, recently passing Charles Barkley for 25th place on the NBA’s all-time scoring list.
There have been reports in recent weeks that the Knicks may be looking to trade Anthony, and some reports suggested the Cavaliers might be willing to part with Love to acquire Anthony. Cavaliers officials have denied such a trade might take place.
